[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 11, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E217]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  BERNICE C. JOHNSON--CITIZEN ACTIVIST

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. EARL F. HILLIARD

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 11, 1997

  Mr. HILLIARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of 
my colleagues one of the spokes in the wheel of justice. Ms. Bernice 
Johnson's life represents that toward which we all should aspire--
belief in self, commitment to community, dedication to the principles 
of democracy, and resolve to carry on in spite of adversity.
  Ms. Johnson has worked in areas of voter registration, voter 
education, and voter participation in Jefferson County and throughout 
the State of Alabama. From 1963 to 1965, she traveled throughout the 
State organizing African-Americans for voter registration. It was not 
an easy task. She documented evidence which was sent to the U.S. 
Department of Justice during President Lyndon B. Johnson's 
administration. This data was useful in laying the groundwork for the 
need of Federal examiners in the State of Alabama.
  She has worked with many community organizations. She was the first 
African-American woman to serve on the Alabama State Textbook 
Committee, the first African-American woman to run for the Jefferson 
County Board of Education, and the first African-American woman to 
serve on the Birmingham Planning and Zoning Board.
  Ms. Johnson is firmly dedicated to the principles of democracy and 
the belief that ``complete democracy will become a reality through 
proper use of the ballot.'' Her steadfast activism has made my State a 
better place for all Alabamians. With due diligence, unyielding faith 
and an appreciation for equal justice for all, Ms. Bernice Johnson has 
lived her life in a manner that is due the utmost respect. Today, in a 
small way, I am pleased to have the opportunity to recognize her for 
her many successful achievements.

                          ____________________